Lawyer, County Commissioner and Postmaster. Married(1) Martha Sisson.
Married(2)Mrs. Horace M. Stokes.
Twenty-fifth Grand Master of Masons in Ohio - 1863-1867.
HON. THOMAS SPARROW DEAD
The announcement in yesterday's issue of the Journal that the Hon. Thomas Sparrow, one of the foremost citizens of Columbus, had been taken down on the evening previous with the lock-jaw, fully prepared the minds of our readers for receiving this morning the additional sad intelligence of his death. After about thirty hours of the most dreadful suffering that ever befalls mortal creatures, Mr. Sparrow breathed his last, at ten o'clock last night.
What a passing strange and inconsequential cause carried this well-known, able and universally respected man from the bosom of his family and large circle of friends! About one week since he was thrown from his buggy while traversing Broad Street eastway, and received a severe sprain of his left hand in endeavoring to preserve himself from the fall; but to this he paid scarcely any attention, and attended to his business as usual. Within a few days, however, his hand began to pain him and swell unnaturally, and he called into requisition the services of Dr. Loving, who discovered that there had been some sort of fracture of the bones of the forefinger, and the necessary remedies were applied. On Friday afternoon he was downtown, and on being questioned to the circumstances of his hand being bandaged, he replied, "Oh, it's nothing but a painful sprain of my hand, and a smash-up of my fingers"---apparently having no thought of the accident being of any other than a trivial character; but alas, he now rests "in the deep stillness of that dreamless state of sleep that knows no waking joys again."
Tomorrow we will furnish a sketch of Mr. Sparrow's notable life.
We direct attention to the calls of the different lodges of Masons and others, to arrange for attending the funeral of their distinguished brother.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 387, Tuesday, August 8, 1871)
TO HIS MEMORY
Sketch of the Life of Hon. Thomas Sparrow
The late Hon. Thomas Sparrow was born of Irish parentage in Huron County, Ohio, about the year 1817, and at an early age, was entered a student in Kenyon College, of which his brother, Rev. William Sparrow, D.D., the well-known professor in the Theological Seminary at Alexandria, Va. was at the time connected. Passing with credit through his college course, he entered upon and prosecuted the study of law in this city, under the preceptorship of P.B. Wilcox. Shortly after attaining to his majority, he entered upon the practice of his profession here, which he continued during the remainder of his life, dividing his
attention in late years between his profession and other avocations. At the bar he maintained a respectable rank among the prominent members of the profession, and at an early day was selected as a candidate for prosecuting attorney. That he was not elected was attributable perhaps more to the personal merits of his competitor, and to considerations of political partisanship, than to any supposed want of qualifications on his part.
Mr. Sparrow in early life identified himself with the Democratic Party in Ohio, and consistently adhered to that organization, sharing its fortunes and its fate, so long as truth, honor and justice would warrant---no farther. A few instances may serve to illustrate his character in this respect: When, some twenty years ago, a suspicion was breathed of malpractice in the office of State Treasurer, Mr. Sparrow was appointed by joint resolution of the Legislature, one of a commission to investigate the matter. He gave his assistance to a thorough investigation, and "honest John Whitehill" came out of the ordeal unscathed. At a later period, when the great defalcation in the State Treasury, in 1857, was developed, and after Gov. Chase had invited sundry prominent Democrats to join in ferreting out the facts, and been refused, he extended the invitation to Mr. Sparrow, who entered upon that duty, and assisted the Auditor of State in tracing the rise and progress of that defalcation, and fixing the responsibilities, primary and secondary. The report was fair and truthful, but failed to give entire satisfaction to such of his political associates as were less desirous of unvarnished facts than that the report should "prophesy unto them smooth things." At a still later date, when the finances of the county were getting into a snarl, Mr. Sparrow was elected a County Commissioner, and without compassion or mercy, scattered the horde of vampires that had fastened upon the
Treasury. It was remarked at the time that the complaints of his action all proceeded from members of his own party.
During the administration of President Buchanan, Mr. Sparrow held the responsible position of Postmaster at Columbus, and it is but truth to say the office was administered in all fairness, with marked ability and enlightened fidelity.
Some fifteen years ago, Mr. Sparrow was initiated into the mysteries of ancient Freemasonry, and soon became a proficient in that venerable Order. The Order, its traditions, literature and lore, had a charm for him that brought him almost a captive to its shrine. He gave to its study, not a mere passing hour for amusement, but a thoroughness of investigation, evincive of a real, living practical entity---and so he regarded it. He was soon called to preside in his particular lodge, and this soon
introduced him into the councils of the Grand Lodge of the State, and here was a theatre admirably adapted to his taste and qualifications. Nor were his abilities long in being recognized by that body of able and discerning men, as a proficient. Passing rapidly through the lower grades of distinction, he was called by the free and cheerful suffrages of his brethren to the Oriental Chair, and challenged "justly that highest badge to wear."
He presided for several consecutive years over the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Nor was it in ancient Masonry alone that he was distinguished. Acting upon the maxim, "Prove all things—hold fast that which is good," he pursued the thread of Masonic studies till he met in most apposite connection the blessed symbol of his religious faith, and his lamented death makes vacant the second office in the Order of Christian Masonry in Ohio.
Mr. Sparrow was in a great measure the architect of his own fortunes. With good and wholesome counsels, and parental benedictions, he went forth into the world to carve a way for his name. Combining suavity with undeviating integrity, he made a reputation, the rich inheritance of his family.
Soon after coming to the bar, he married Martha, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. P. Sisson, of Columbus, by whom he had several children left to him as pledges of conjugal love, when some years past, he was suddenly stricken with the desolating sorrows of his loneliness when his wife passed from earth. In due time he again sought domestic comfort, and brought to the hymeneal altar the accomplished widow of the late Horace M. Stokes, his predecessor in the office of Grand Master of Masons.
In this her second great affliction, she has the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community, and especially of that fraternity that cherishes an affectionate remembrance of each of her lamented partners.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 388, Wednesday, August 9, 1871)
FUNERAL OF HON. THOMAS SPARROW
The great honor done to this late distinguished son of Columbus yesterday will forever be remembered by his family connections. The whole funeral ceremony was a demonstration as beautiful as it was solemn. The city itself appeared to manifest an air of sorrow at losing so prominent a citizen, and to increase the general expression of sadness, the Masonic Hall was neatly draped in black crepe festoonery; Wagner's Hall, where the Knights Templar assemble, was appropriately draped, and in the east corner of the hall was placed a photographic likeness of the deceased, which was surmounted by these words of regret: "The country has lost a man, the poor a friend and society an ornament." The hall of the Druids, corner of Mound and Fourth Streets, was also decorated with emblems of mourning and sorrow.
The Neil House flag, the Wagner Hall flag and American house flag were displayed at half-mast.
The funeral procession embraced the Mt. Vernon Commandery No. 1 of Knights Templar in full regalia; Hanselman Commandery, from Cincinnati, under the command of J.W. Foote, Captain General; Magnolia Lodge No. 20, F.&A.M.; Columbus Lodge No. 30, F.&A.M.; Goodale Lodge No. 372, F.&A.M.; Capitol Grove Lodge No. 30, United Ancient Order of Druids; officers of the Grand Lodge of Masons of the State of Ohio; officers of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, and members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The procession formed at Masonic Hall at 2 o'clock, and proceeded on the following line of march: south on High to Town Street; east on Town to Seventh; south on Seventh to Rich; east on Rich to the late residence of the deceased. It then countermarched and proceeded west on Rich to Third; south on Third to St. Paul's Church. It was commanded by James M. Stewart, of Columbus, Grand Marshal and James B. Covert, of Cincinnati, Assistant Grand Marshal. All the local lodges were largely represented.
Long before the procession arrived at the church, an immense congregation of people had collected both inside the edifice and in the street on which it fronts. The corpse was conveyed to a position immediately in front of the altar, where the coffin was uncovered and remained so during the reading of the church service. Upon the conclusion of this ceremony, the Masons again took charge of the body and conveyed it to the hearse.
The funeral cortege then moved toward Green Lawn Cemetery, arriving at which the last sad rites of Masonry were performed, Most Worshipful Grand Master Alexander H. Newcomb, of Toledo, officiating.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 390,Friday, August 11, 1871)
Married(2)Mrs. Horace M. Stokes.
Twenty-fifth Grand Master of Masons in Ohio - 1863-1867.
HON. THOMAS SPARROW DEAD
The announcement in yesterday's issue of the Journal that the Hon. Thomas Sparrow, one of the foremost citizens of Columbus, had been taken down on the evening previous with the lock-jaw, fully prepared the minds of our readers for receiving this morning the additional sad intelligence of his death. After about thirty hours of the most dreadful suffering that ever befalls mortal creatures, Mr. Sparrow breathed his last, at ten o'clock last night.
What a passing strange and inconsequential cause carried this well-known, able and universally respected man from the bosom of his family and large circle of friends! About one week since he was thrown from his buggy while traversing Broad Street eastway, and received a severe sprain of his left hand in endeavoring to preserve himself from the fall; but to this he paid scarcely any attention, and attended to his business as usual. Within a few days, however, his hand began to pain him and swell unnaturally, and he called into requisition the services of Dr. Loving, who discovered that there had been some sort of fracture of the bones of the forefinger, and the necessary remedies were applied. On Friday afternoon he was downtown, and on being questioned to the circumstances of his hand being bandaged, he replied, "Oh, it's nothing but a painful sprain of my hand, and a smash-up of my fingers"---apparently having no thought of the accident being of any other than a trivial character; but alas, he now rests "in the deep stillness of that dreamless state of sleep that knows no waking joys again."
Tomorrow we will furnish a sketch of Mr. Sparrow's notable life.
We direct attention to the calls of the different lodges of Masons and others, to arrange for attending the funeral of their distinguished brother.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 387, Tuesday, August 8, 1871)
TO HIS MEMORY
Sketch of the Life of Hon. Thomas Sparrow
The late Hon. Thomas Sparrow was born of Irish parentage in Huron County, Ohio, about the year 1817, and at an early age, was entered a student in Kenyon College, of which his brother, Rev. William Sparrow, D.D., the well-known professor in the Theological Seminary at Alexandria, Va. was at the time connected. Passing with credit through his college course, he entered upon and prosecuted the study of law in this city, under the preceptorship of P.B. Wilcox. Shortly after attaining to his majority, he entered upon the practice of his profession here, which he continued during the remainder of his life, dividing his
attention in late years between his profession and other avocations. At the bar he maintained a respectable rank among the prominent members of the profession, and at an early day was selected as a candidate for prosecuting attorney. That he was not elected was attributable perhaps more to the personal merits of his competitor, and to considerations of political partisanship, than to any supposed want of qualifications on his part.
Mr. Sparrow in early life identified himself with the Democratic Party in Ohio, and consistently adhered to that organization, sharing its fortunes and its fate, so long as truth, honor and justice would warrant---no farther. A few instances may serve to illustrate his character in this respect: When, some twenty years ago, a suspicion was breathed of malpractice in the office of State Treasurer, Mr. Sparrow was appointed by joint resolution of the Legislature, one of a commission to investigate the matter. He gave his assistance to a thorough investigation, and "honest John Whitehill" came out of the ordeal unscathed. At a later period, when the great defalcation in the State Treasury, in 1857, was developed, and after Gov. Chase had invited sundry prominent Democrats to join in ferreting out the facts, and been refused, he extended the invitation to Mr. Sparrow, who entered upon that duty, and assisted the Auditor of State in tracing the rise and progress of that defalcation, and fixing the responsibilities, primary and secondary. The report was fair and truthful, but failed to give entire satisfaction to such of his political associates as were less desirous of unvarnished facts than that the report should "prophesy unto them smooth things." At a still later date, when the finances of the county were getting into a snarl, Mr. Sparrow was elected a County Commissioner, and without compassion or mercy, scattered the horde of vampires that had fastened upon the
Treasury. It was remarked at the time that the complaints of his action all proceeded from members of his own party.
During the administration of President Buchanan, Mr. Sparrow held the responsible position of Postmaster at Columbus, and it is but truth to say the office was administered in all fairness, with marked ability and enlightened fidelity.
Some fifteen years ago, Mr. Sparrow was initiated into the mysteries of ancient Freemasonry, and soon became a proficient in that venerable Order. The Order, its traditions, literature and lore, had a charm for him that brought him almost a captive to its shrine. He gave to its study, not a mere passing hour for amusement, but a thoroughness of investigation, evincive of a real, living practical entity---and so he regarded it. He was soon called to preside in his particular lodge, and this soon
introduced him into the councils of the Grand Lodge of the State, and here was a theatre admirably adapted to his taste and qualifications. Nor were his abilities long in being recognized by that body of able and discerning men, as a proficient. Passing rapidly through the lower grades of distinction, he was called by the free and cheerful suffrages of his brethren to the Oriental Chair, and challenged "justly that highest badge to wear."
He presided for several consecutive years over the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Nor was it in ancient Masonry alone that he was distinguished. Acting upon the maxim, "Prove all things—hold fast that which is good," he pursued the thread of Masonic studies till he met in most apposite connection the blessed symbol of his religious faith, and his lamented death makes vacant the second office in the Order of Christian Masonry in Ohio.
Mr. Sparrow was in a great measure the architect of his own fortunes. With good and wholesome counsels, and parental benedictions, he went forth into the world to carve a way for his name. Combining suavity with undeviating integrity, he made a reputation, the rich inheritance of his family.
Soon after coming to the bar, he married Martha, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. P. Sisson, of Columbus, by whom he had several children left to him as pledges of conjugal love, when some years past, he was suddenly stricken with the desolating sorrows of his loneliness when his wife passed from earth. In due time he again sought domestic comfort, and brought to the hymeneal altar the accomplished widow of the late Horace M. Stokes, his predecessor in the office of Grand Master of Masons.
In this her second great affliction, she has the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community, and especially of that fraternity that cherishes an affectionate remembrance of each of her lamented partners.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 388, Wednesday, August 9, 1871)
FUNERAL OF HON. THOMAS SPARROW
The great honor done to this late distinguished son of Columbus yesterday will forever be remembered by his family connections. The whole funeral ceremony was a demonstration as beautiful as it was solemn. The city itself appeared to manifest an air of sorrow at losing so prominent a citizen, and to increase the general expression of sadness, the Masonic Hall was neatly draped in black crepe festoonery; Wagner's Hall, where the Knights Templar assemble, was appropriately draped, and in the east corner of the hall was placed a photographic likeness of the deceased, which was surmounted by these words of regret: "The country has lost a man, the poor a friend and society an ornament." The hall of the Druids, corner of Mound and Fourth Streets, was also decorated with emblems of mourning and sorrow.
The Neil House flag, the Wagner Hall flag and American house flag were displayed at half-mast.
The funeral procession embraced the Mt. Vernon Commandery No. 1 of Knights Templar in full regalia; Hanselman Commandery, from Cincinnati, under the command of J.W. Foote, Captain General; Magnolia Lodge No. 20, F.&A.M.; Columbus Lodge No. 30, F.&A.M.; Goodale Lodge No. 372, F.&A.M.; Capitol Grove Lodge No. 30, United Ancient Order of Druids; officers of the Grand Lodge of Masons of the State of Ohio; officers of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, and members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The procession formed at Masonic Hall at 2 o'clock, and proceeded on the following line of march: south on High to Town Street; east on Town to Seventh; south on Seventh to Rich; east on Rich to the late residence of the deceased. It then countermarched and proceeded west on Rich to Third; south on Third to St. Paul's Church. It was commanded by James M. Stewart, of Columbus, Grand Marshal and James B. Covert, of Cincinnati, Assistant Grand Marshal. All the local lodges were largely represented.
Long before the procession arrived at the church, an immense congregation of people had collected both inside the edifice and in the street on which it fronts. The corpse was conveyed to a position immediately in front of the altar, where the coffin was uncovered and remained so during the reading of the church service. Upon the conclusion of this ceremony, the Masons again took charge of the body and conveyed it to the hearse.
The funeral cortege then moved toward Green Lawn Cemetery, arriving at which the last sad rites of Masonry were performed, Most Worshipful Grand Master Alexander H. Newcomb, of Toledo, officiating.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 390,Friday, August 11, 1871)
Lawyer, County Commissioner and Postmaster. Married(1) Martha Sisson.
Married(2)Mrs. Horace M. Stokes.
Twenty-fifth Grand Master of Masons in Ohio - 1863-1867.
HON. THOMAS SPARROW DEAD
The announcement in yesterday's issue of the Journal that the Hon. Thomas Sparrow, one of the foremost citizens of Columbus, had been taken down on the evening previous with the lock-jaw, fully prepared the minds of our readers for receiving this morning the additional sad intelligence of his death. After about thirty hours of the most dreadful suffering that ever befalls mortal creatures, Mr. Sparrow breathed his last, at ten o'clock last night.
What a passing strange and inconsequential cause carried this well-known, able and universally respected man from the bosom of his family and large circle of friends! About one week since he was thrown from his buggy while traversing Broad Street eastway, and received a severe sprain of his left hand in endeavoring to preserve himself from the fall; but to this he paid scarcely any attention, and attended to his business as usual. Within a few days, however, his hand began to pain him and swell unnaturally, and he called into requisition the services of Dr. Loving, who discovered that there had been some sort of fracture of the bones of the forefinger, and the necessary remedies were applied. On Friday afternoon he was downtown, and on being questioned to the circumstances of his hand being bandaged, he replied, "Oh, it's nothing but a painful sprain of my hand, and a smash-up of my fingers"---apparently having no thought of the accident being of any other than a trivial character; but alas, he now rests "in the deep stillness of that dreamless state of sleep that knows no waking joys again."
Tomorrow we will furnish a sketch of Mr. Sparrow's notable life.
We direct attention to the calls of the different lodges of Masons and others, to arrange for attending the funeral of their distinguished brother.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 387, Tuesday, August 8, 1871)
TO HIS MEMORY
Sketch of the Life of Hon. Thomas Sparrow
The late Hon. Thomas Sparrow was born of Irish parentage in Huron County, Ohio, about the year 1817, and at an early age, was entered a student in Kenyon College, of which his brother, Rev. William Sparrow, D.D., the well-known professor in the Theological Seminary at Alexandria, Va. was at the time connected. Passing with credit through his college course, he entered upon and prosecuted the study of law in this city, under the preceptorship of P.B. Wilcox. Shortly after attaining to his majority, he entered upon the practice of his profession here, which he continued during the remainder of his life, dividing his
attention in late years between his profession and other avocations. At the bar he maintained a respectable rank among the prominent members of the profession, and at an early day was selected as a candidate for prosecuting attorney. That he was not elected was attributable perhaps more to the personal merits of his competitor, and to considerations of political partisanship, than to any supposed want of qualifications on his part.
Mr. Sparrow in early life identified himself with the Democratic Party in Ohio, and consistently adhered to that organization, sharing its fortunes and its fate, so long as truth, honor and justice would warrant---no farther. A few instances may serve to illustrate his character in this respect: When, some twenty years ago, a suspicion was breathed of malpractice in the office of State Treasurer, Mr. Sparrow was appointed by joint resolution of the Legislature, one of a commission to investigate the matter. He gave his assistance to a thorough investigation, and "honest John Whitehill" came out of the ordeal unscathed. At a later period, when the great defalcation in the State Treasury, in 1857, was developed, and after Gov. Chase had invited sundry prominent Democrats to join in ferreting out the facts, and been refused, he extended the invitation to Mr. Sparrow, who entered upon that duty, and assisted the Auditor of State in tracing the rise and progress of that defalcation, and fixing the responsibilities, primary and secondary. The report was fair and truthful, but failed to give entire satisfaction to such of his political associates as were less desirous of unvarnished facts than that the report should "prophesy unto them smooth things." At a still later date, when the finances of the county were getting into a snarl, Mr. Sparrow was elected a County Commissioner, and without compassion or mercy, scattered the horde of vampires that had fastened upon the
Treasury. It was remarked at the time that the complaints of his action all proceeded from members of his own party.
During the administration of President Buchanan, Mr. Sparrow held the responsible position of Postmaster at Columbus, and it is but truth to say the office was administered in all fairness, with marked ability and enlightened fidelity.
Some fifteen years ago, Mr. Sparrow was initiated into the mysteries of ancient Freemasonry, and soon became a proficient in that venerable Order. The Order, its traditions, literature and lore, had a charm for him that brought him almost a captive to its shrine. He gave to its study, not a mere passing hour for amusement, but a thoroughness of investigation, evincive of a real, living practical entity---and so he regarded it. He was soon called to preside in his particular lodge, and this soon
introduced him into the councils of the Grand Lodge of the State, and here was a theatre admirably adapted to his taste and qualifications. Nor were his abilities long in being recognized by that body of able and discerning men, as a proficient. Passing rapidly through the lower grades of distinction, he was called by the free and cheerful suffrages of his brethren to the Oriental Chair, and challenged "justly that highest badge to wear."
He presided for several consecutive years over the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Nor was it in ancient Masonry alone that he was distinguished. Acting upon the maxim, "Prove all things—hold fast that which is good," he pursued the thread of Masonic studies till he met in most apposite connection the blessed symbol of his religious faith, and his lamented death makes vacant the second office in the Order of Christian Masonry in Ohio.
Mr. Sparrow was in a great measure the architect of his own fortunes. With good and wholesome counsels, and parental benedictions, he went forth into the world to carve a way for his name. Combining suavity with undeviating integrity, he made a reputation, the rich inheritance of his family.
Soon after coming to the bar, he married Martha, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. P. Sisson, of Columbus, by whom he had several children left to him as pledges of conjugal love, when some years past, he was suddenly stricken with the desolating sorrows of his loneliness when his wife passed from earth. In due time he again sought domestic comfort, and brought to the hymeneal altar the accomplished widow of the late Horace M. Stokes, his predecessor in the office of Grand Master of Masons.
In this her second great affliction, she has the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community, and especially of that fraternity that cherishes an affectionate remembrance of each of her lamented partners.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 388, Wednesday, August 9, 1871)
FUNERAL OF HON. THOMAS SPARROW
The great honor done to this late distinguished son of Columbus yesterday will forever be remembered by his family connections. The whole funeral ceremony was a demonstration as beautiful as it was solemn. The city itself appeared to manifest an air of sorrow at losing so prominent a citizen, and to increase the general expression of sadness, the Masonic Hall was neatly draped in black crepe festoonery; Wagner's Hall, where the Knights Templar assemble, was appropriately draped, and in the east corner of the hall was placed a photographic likeness of the deceased, which was surmounted by these words of regret: "The country has lost a man, the poor a friend and society an ornament." The hall of the Druids, corner of Mound and Fourth Streets, was also decorated with emblems of mourning and sorrow.
The Neil House flag, the Wagner Hall flag and American house flag were displayed at half-mast.
The funeral procession embraced the Mt. Vernon Commandery No. 1 of Knights Templar in full regalia; Hanselman Commandery, from Cincinnati, under the command of J.W. Foote, Captain General; Magnolia Lodge No. 20, F.&A.M.; Columbus Lodge No. 30, F.&A.M.; Goodale Lodge No. 372, F.&A.M.; Capitol Grove Lodge No. 30, United Ancient Order of Druids; officers of the Grand Lodge of Masons of the State of Ohio; officers of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, and members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The procession formed at Masonic Hall at 2 o'clock, and proceeded on the following line of march: south on High to Town Street; east on Town to Seventh; south on Seventh to Rich; east on Rich to the late residence of the deceased. It then countermarched and proceeded west on Rich to Third; south on Third to St. Paul's Church. It was commanded by James M. Stewart, of Columbus, Grand Marshal and James B. Covert, of Cincinnati, Assistant Grand Marshal. All the local lodges were largely represented.
Long before the procession arrived at the church, an immense congregation of people had collected both inside the edifice and in the street on which it fronts. The corpse was conveyed to a position immediately in front of the altar, where the coffin was uncovered and remained so during the reading of the church service. Upon the conclusion of this ceremony, the Masons again took charge of the body and conveyed it to the hearse.
The funeral cortege then moved toward Green Lawn Cemetery, arriving at which the last sad rites of Masonry were performed, Most Worshipful Grand Master Alexander H. Newcomb, of Toledo, officiating.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 390,Friday, August 11, 1871)
Married(2)Mrs. Horace M. Stokes.
Twenty-fifth Grand Master of Masons in Ohio - 1863-1867.
HON. THOMAS SPARROW DEAD
The announcement in yesterday's issue of the Journal that the Hon. Thomas Sparrow, one of the foremost citizens of Columbus, had been taken down on the evening previous with the lock-jaw, fully prepared the minds of our readers for receiving this morning the additional sad intelligence of his death. After about thirty hours of the most dreadful suffering that ever befalls mortal creatures, Mr. Sparrow breathed his last, at ten o'clock last night.
What a passing strange and inconsequential cause carried this well-known, able and universally respected man from the bosom of his family and large circle of friends! About one week since he was thrown from his buggy while traversing Broad Street eastway, and received a severe sprain of his left hand in endeavoring to preserve himself from the fall; but to this he paid scarcely any attention, and attended to his business as usual. Within a few days, however, his hand began to pain him and swell unnaturally, and he called into requisition the services of Dr. Loving, who discovered that there had been some sort of fracture of the bones of the forefinger, and the necessary remedies were applied. On Friday afternoon he was downtown, and on being questioned to the circumstances of his hand being bandaged, he replied, "Oh, it's nothing but a painful sprain of my hand, and a smash-up of my fingers"---apparently having no thought of the accident being of any other than a trivial character; but alas, he now rests "in the deep stillness of that dreamless state of sleep that knows no waking joys again."
Tomorrow we will furnish a sketch of Mr. Sparrow's notable life.
We direct attention to the calls of the different lodges of Masons and others, to arrange for attending the funeral of their distinguished brother.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 387, Tuesday, August 8, 1871)
TO HIS MEMORY
Sketch of the Life of Hon. Thomas Sparrow
The late Hon. Thomas Sparrow was born of Irish parentage in Huron County, Ohio, about the year 1817, and at an early age, was entered a student in Kenyon College, of which his brother, Rev. William Sparrow, D.D., the well-known professor in the Theological Seminary at Alexandria, Va. was at the time connected. Passing with credit through his college course, he entered upon and prosecuted the study of law in this city, under the preceptorship of P.B. Wilcox. Shortly after attaining to his majority, he entered upon the practice of his profession here, which he continued during the remainder of his life, dividing his
attention in late years between his profession and other avocations. At the bar he maintained a respectable rank among the prominent members of the profession, and at an early day was selected as a candidate for prosecuting attorney. That he was not elected was attributable perhaps more to the personal merits of his competitor, and to considerations of political partisanship, than to any supposed want of qualifications on his part.
Mr. Sparrow in early life identified himself with the Democratic Party in Ohio, and consistently adhered to that organization, sharing its fortunes and its fate, so long as truth, honor and justice would warrant---no farther. A few instances may serve to illustrate his character in this respect: When, some twenty years ago, a suspicion was breathed of malpractice in the office of State Treasurer, Mr. Sparrow was appointed by joint resolution of the Legislature, one of a commission to investigate the matter. He gave his assistance to a thorough investigation, and "honest John Whitehill" came out of the ordeal unscathed. At a later period, when the great defalcation in the State Treasury, in 1857, was developed, and after Gov. Chase had invited sundry prominent Democrats to join in ferreting out the facts, and been refused, he extended the invitation to Mr. Sparrow, who entered upon that duty, and assisted the Auditor of State in tracing the rise and progress of that defalcation, and fixing the responsibilities, primary and secondary. The report was fair and truthful, but failed to give entire satisfaction to such of his political associates as were less desirous of unvarnished facts than that the report should "prophesy unto them smooth things." At a still later date, when the finances of the county were getting into a snarl, Mr. Sparrow was elected a County Commissioner, and without compassion or mercy, scattered the horde of vampires that had fastened upon the
Treasury. It was remarked at the time that the complaints of his action all proceeded from members of his own party.
During the administration of President Buchanan, Mr. Sparrow held the responsible position of Postmaster at Columbus, and it is but truth to say the office was administered in all fairness, with marked ability and enlightened fidelity.
Some fifteen years ago, Mr. Sparrow was initiated into the mysteries of ancient Freemasonry, and soon became a proficient in that venerable Order. The Order, its traditions, literature and lore, had a charm for him that brought him almost a captive to its shrine. He gave to its study, not a mere passing hour for amusement, but a thoroughness of investigation, evincive of a real, living practical entity---and so he regarded it. He was soon called to preside in his particular lodge, and this soon
introduced him into the councils of the Grand Lodge of the State, and here was a theatre admirably adapted to his taste and qualifications. Nor were his abilities long in being recognized by that body of able and discerning men, as a proficient. Passing rapidly through the lower grades of distinction, he was called by the free and cheerful suffrages of his brethren to the Oriental Chair, and challenged "justly that highest badge to wear."
He presided for several consecutive years over the Grand Lodge of Ohio. Nor was it in ancient Masonry alone that he was distinguished. Acting upon the maxim, "Prove all things—hold fast that which is good," he pursued the thread of Masonic studies till he met in most apposite connection the blessed symbol of his religious faith, and his lamented death makes vacant the second office in the Order of Christian Masonry in Ohio.
Mr. Sparrow was in a great measure the architect of his own fortunes. With good and wholesome counsels, and parental benedictions, he went forth into the world to carve a way for his name. Combining suavity with undeviating integrity, he made a reputation, the rich inheritance of his family.
Soon after coming to the bar, he married Martha, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. P. Sisson, of Columbus, by whom he had several children left to him as pledges of conjugal love, when some years past, he was suddenly stricken with the desolating sorrows of his loneliness when his wife passed from earth. In due time he again sought domestic comfort, and brought to the hymeneal altar the accomplished widow of the late Horace M. Stokes, his predecessor in the office of Grand Master of Masons.
In this her second great affliction, she has the heartfelt sympathy of the whole community, and especially of that fraternity that cherishes an affectionate remembrance of each of her lamented partners.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 388, Wednesday, August 9, 1871)
FUNERAL OF HON. THOMAS SPARROW
The great honor done to this late distinguished son of Columbus yesterday will forever be remembered by his family connections. The whole funeral ceremony was a demonstration as beautiful as it was solemn. The city itself appeared to manifest an air of sorrow at losing so prominent a citizen, and to increase the general expression of sadness, the Masonic Hall was neatly draped in black crepe festoonery; Wagner's Hall, where the Knights Templar assemble, was appropriately draped, and in the east corner of the hall was placed a photographic likeness of the deceased, which was surmounted by these words of regret: "The country has lost a man, the poor a friend and society an ornament." The hall of the Druids, corner of Mound and Fourth Streets, was also decorated with emblems of mourning and sorrow.
The Neil House flag, the Wagner Hall flag and American house flag were displayed at half-mast.
The funeral procession embraced the Mt. Vernon Commandery No. 1 of Knights Templar in full regalia; Hanselman Commandery, from Cincinnati, under the command of J.W. Foote, Captain General; Magnolia Lodge No. 20, F.&A.M.; Columbus Lodge No. 30, F.&A.M.; Goodale Lodge No. 372, F.&A.M.; Capitol Grove Lodge No. 30, United Ancient Order of Druids; officers of the Grand Lodge of Masons of the State of Ohio; officers of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, and members of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The procession formed at Masonic Hall at 2 o'clock, and proceeded on the following line of march: south on High to Town Street; east on Town to Seventh; south on Seventh to Rich; east on Rich to the late residence of the deceased. It then countermarched and proceeded west on Rich to Third; south on Third to St. Paul's Church. It was commanded by James M. Stewart, of Columbus, Grand Marshal and James B. Covert, of Cincinnati, Assistant Grand Marshal. All the local lodges were largely represented.
Long before the procession arrived at the church, an immense congregation of people had collected both inside the edifice and in the street on which it fronts. The corpse was conveyed to a position immediately in front of the altar, where the coffin was uncovered and remained so during the reading of the church service. Upon the conclusion of this ceremony, the Masons again took charge of the body and conveyed it to the hearse.
The funeral cortege then moved toward Green Lawn Cemetery, arriving at which the last sad rites of Masonry were performed, Most Worshipful Grand Master Alexander H. Newcomb, of Toledo, officiating.
(Copied from the Ohio State Journal, Vol. XXXII, No. 390,Friday, August 11, 1871)
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